Erdogan and Putin Discuss Bilateral and Global Issues at SCO Summit in Astana

Astana, The Gulf Observer: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, to discuss a range of bilateral and global issues during the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

The two leaders addressed the latest developments in the Ukraine war, Israel’s attacks on Palestinian territories, efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis, and the ongoing fight against terrorism, according to a statement released by Türkiye’s Communications Directorate on Wednesday.

President Erdogan highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Türkiye and Russia, including the construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant. “We have discussions with Russia on the Sinop Nuclear Power Plant. I believe we can take serious steps on that matter,” Erdogan said. The Sinop plant, a proposed nuclear power plant in Türkiye’s Black Sea region, would be the country’s second nuclear plant and its second built in partnership with Moscow.

Erdogan expressed confidence in achieving the ambitious trade volume goal of $100 billion, citing strong potential for growth in bilateral relations.

President Putin acknowledged the progress in the relationship between Russia and Türkiye, noting, “Despite all challenges, the relationship between Russia and Türkiye is progressing step by step.” He emphasized the success of their “strategic projects” and highlighted record-breaking tourism numbers, with 6.7 million Russian tourists visiting Türkiye last year.

During the meeting, President Erdogan invited President Putin to visit Türkiye. Putin responded positively, stating, “I will definitely come.”

Erdogan also addressed Israel’s attacks on Palestinian territories and threats against Lebanon, stressing that these actions threaten regional and global peace and stability. He warned that the spread of conflicts would cause the greatest harm to the countries in the region. “Türkiye will continue to strive for the establishment of peace in its region and the world,” he added.

Regarding the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, President Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s role in laying the groundwork for a consensus to end the conflict with a ceasefire. He emphasized that a fair peace satisfying both sides is possible.

On the topic of Türkiye’s fight against terrorism, Erdogan asserted Türkiye’s determination to prevent the formation of a terrorist state along its borders. He also underlined the importance of resolving regional instabilities, particularly the Syrian civil war that began in 2011, stating, “Türkiye is ready to cooperate for a solution.”

The discussions between President Erdogan and President Putin reflect the ongoing efforts of both nations to address pressing global issues and strengthen their bilateral relations amidst a complex international landscape.